SSBC Social Distancing Virtual "Walk"- end August 2020 (Aug 29)

Note: To those who are unfamiliar, these social distancing “walks” are not in-person walks but rather a group chat where members share their experiences for the morning and stay connected.  South Shore Bird Club is strict about (and very impressed by its members) adhering to social distancing guidelines, which includes avoiding populated areas, large groups, and close social interaction.  We fully support members enjoying the healing and mindfulness that nature can provide and want to foster a social environment for those who may feel isolated-these walks are intended to achieve both of these goals with safety at the forefront of our mission.

The forecast for Saturday, August 29th was somewhat dismal - thunderstorms in many parts of the state. Nate posted a dire-looking update, wondering if this could force us all to yard birding. Even Pete Jacobson was otherwise occupied for the day. Brian Vigorito broke things open with a lifer Buff-breasted Sandpiper, no less just before 8:00 a.m.
 Nate commented that he was hearing Red-breasted Nuthatches, and thought that might be the sound of going a bit crazy (I certainly hope not, as it's been my favorite bird since about 5 years old, ). Glenn thought that it was the sound of being in heaven - indeed! Carol Molander questions if other folks were seeing a high number of the species, and perhaps it was an irruption year. We can all look forward to the finch forecast, coming soon!

Nate then worried his feeders may be a source avian pox - with a few sorry-looking photos. The pox can be transmitted through feeders, bird baths, mosquitoes and other birds (thanks Carol).  Keelin was out at High Toss, Wellfleet and reported masses of Cedar Wawings, well over 100. A flock of over 500  terns at Ellisville (including some banded, and a Roseate from Maine) by observed by Lisa Schilbley.  Continuing the flock trend, Carol had a large one of Grackles, Red-winged Blackbirds and Cowbirds at her feeders. Conor Gearin joined in the RBNU party as well as seeing a Kingfisher, a possible Forster's Tern and plenty of dragonflies in the Squantum area.

Later in the day, Carol posted some great photos of a young male hummingbird visiting her feeder. Mary Jo Foti headed to Dennis Chapin Beach, looking for peeps. She was rewarded by finding two Western Sandpipers.
Bring on full-scale fall migration!

- Keelin

Photo by Brian Vigorito - Buff-breasted Sandpiper

Photo by Carol Molander - Ruby-throated Hummingbird (young male)

Photo by Mary Jo Foti - Western Sandpiper